Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday:

7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Phone: 416.545.1881

Book Online

Massage Therapy Yonge and Eglinton- Decrease Swelling Through Lymph Taping

Published July 15, 2018

I recently took a Lymph Taping course offered through Dr. Vodder School for Manual Lymph Drainage and it was amazing!  I was able to learn various taping techniques to help reduce edema (swelling) in all areas of the body. This technique can be greatly beneficial to patients with swelling in any area of the body, due to any cause.

What is Lymph Taping?

I’m sure if you’ve watched sporting events or the olympics, you’ve seen the crazy coloured tape on the athletes.  This is K-tape (Kinesio Tape).  K-tape is a stretchy tape (one way stretch) used in a variety of different ways to help the body.  It’s used for postural correction, muscular activation, mechanic correction, scar breakdown (which I’ll get to in another post) and to promote movement of lymphatic fluid.

K-tape is applied to and area where there is edema and the strips of tape are then directed to an area of drainage on the body.  The main areas where fluid drains is the neck, axilla (armpit) or inguinal region (groin).  With lymphatic taping, the tape is applied in a way that creates convolutions, a ripple effect, in the skin.  This ultimately creates a greater passageway for the lymphatic fluid to flow.  By creating this path of least resistance, lymphatic fluid can be directed away from an area where there is swelling, to a drainage site in the body.

Here is an example of lymph taping for a patient who has swelling in their knee.

Lymph taping is great to use on areas where there is chronic swelling or with injuries in the sub-acute stage.  I have used this type of taping to help reduce swelling with ankle injuries & fractures, after knee replacements, lymphedema patients, any many other post op patients with great success.  The tape stays on for 3-5 days and can be worn while working out, showering, swimming etc.

More questions- click here to book an appointment with Karen.

By Karen Kingsley

 

Posted in ALPHA Health Services

Vestibular Physiotherapy- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Published June 6, 2018

The Vestibular System Blog Series: Part 3
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Continuing with the Vestibular System Blog Series, we will now start to explore some more common disorders beginning with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

If you missed the earlier blogs here is Part 1: What is the Vestibular System and Part 2: Signs and Symptoms of Vestibular Disorders.

BPPV is the most common form of position vertigo and accounts for over half of all peripheral vestibular dysfunction. It is more common as we age and is seven times more common in people over 60 years of age. BPPV is a specific diagnosis, and each word describes the condition:

Benign—it is not life-threatening, even though the symptoms can be very intense and upsetting

Paroxysmal – it comes in sudden, short spells

Positional—certain head positions or movements can trigger a spell

Vertigo—feeling like you are spinning or the world around you is spinning

BPPV occurs when calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) or “ear rocks” sluff off from the membrane where they reside in the saccule of the inner ear and migrate into the semicircular canals. When the head moves a certain way, these crystals move around in the semicircular canals (where they aren’t supposed to be) and excite the neurons, which send false signals to the brain. The result of this is the sensation of vertigo (spinning), abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) and usually nausea.

The head movements that typically bring on symptoms including looking up, looking down, lying down flat quickly, rolling over when lying flat. Some activity of your daily life that may bring on symptoms include looking up into the cupboard, rolling over in bed, tilting your head back in a dentist chair or washing hair at the salon, and even some yoga or Pilates poses.

Symptoms typically last less than 60 seconds and go away if you stay in provoking position.

The cause of BPPV is unknown in most cases, it can less commonly be caused from head trauma or concussion or other vestibular dysfunctions.

BPPV is assessed in clinic by looking for the “ear rocks” in one of semicircular canals. This involves using the Dix‐Hallpike and Head Roll tests.

BPPV is treated by performing a repositioning maneuver to try to reposition the free-floating calcium carbonate crystals back to the saccule there they belong. The most common maneuver used is called the Epley maneuver. Many studies have shown that the BPPV treatment has success rates of over 80% with one treatment.

BPPV can reoccur in many people. The recurrence rate is between 18-37% and is most likely in the first year. BPPV can spontaneously resolve on its own, but it may take a long time and some never resolve without treatment.
Have a question? Ask Jennifer at info@alphahealthservices.ca

Jennifer Harvey
Registered Physiotherapist

References:

Tonks, Bernard. (2017). Vestibular Rehabilitation Course Manual.

Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery 2017, Vol. 156(3S) S1 –S47

Posted in ALPHA Health Services, Physiotherapy Clinic at Yonge and Eglinton- ALPHA Health Services

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy- Lubricants

Published June 2, 2018

These days, it is much more likely that you will come across a shelf full of various personal lubricants at your local pharmacy and even the grocery store. The question is….do you need it?

A recent UK survey discovered that out of 2000 women over the age of 55 who reported vaginal dryness or dyspareunia (painful intercourse), 33% of them did not seek professional advice (1). Surveys also suggest that there is a general lack of awareness among women about the availability of treatment options associated with these symptoms (1). Other studies have shown that the use of water or silicone based lubricants is associated with heightened female sexual pleasure and satisfaction for penetrative sex as well as solo sex compared with no lubricant use (2).

Lubricants are used during sexual intercourse to provide rapid, short-term relief from vaginal dryness. The extra moisture helps reduce friction or irritation of the vagina and penis when natural lubrication may be decreased. They are particularly beneficial for women whose vaginal dryness is a concern only or mainly during sex. The body’s ability to naturally lubricate can be affected due to hormonal shifts that occur during menopause, menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and while breastfeeding. Cancer treatments such as radiation therapy to the pelvis can cause the vagina to become narrower, shorter, less elastic, and drier (1). Medications and contraception methods may also have the side effect of influencing vaginal secretion levels. Emotional factors such as anxiety, depression, stress, fatigue, fear of pain, and lack of sufficient foreplay also play a role in production of vaginal lubrication. When there is a lack of arousal, the body’s natural ability to lubricate the vaginal walls is compromised. These unique scenarios can result in pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse and has been estimated to affect around half of all women at some point in their lives (1). The major take home point here is that vaginal lubricants are not just reserved for older women during menopause. Both men and women of any age may benefit from using lubricants during sexual intercourse at various times in their life. Having a well lubricated vagina and penis can enhance sensations and arousal during foreplay and intercourse. It is not only pleasurable but offers the benefit of preventing microtearing or abrasions to the delicate vaginal/rectal tissue and penis.

The plethora of lubricants available can create confusion as to each of their benefits. The following is an explanation of the types of lubricant available on the market.

Water based lubricants – Yes, Trojan H20, Sliquid Organic, Astroglide, Sliquid Oceanics (pH balanced for menopause), Yes But (pH balanced for rectal pH)

These lubricants are considered safe and compatible with all types of sex toys, dilators and condoms. They have a tendency to dry out a little more quickly than other lubricants. They may be used for oral sex as some are flavoured and others have no taste at all (do a taste test first as some may taste bad). These lubricants are easily accessible, generally inexpensive, non-staining, and wash off easily.

Oil based lubricants – olive oil, coconut oil

These lubricants are compatible with silicone, metal and glass sex toys only. They are not compatible with any latex toys or condoms. Benefits of oil based lubricants include long lasting, thicker texture to stay in place better, and waterproof (have fun in the shower!) Alternatively, there has been some evidence to suggest coconut oil/olive oil may alter the natural pH balance of the vagina, and could lead to yeast infections.

Silicone based lubricants – Uberlube, Sliquid Silver, Jo

These lubricants are completely tasteless and odourless. They are long lasting and waterproof just like their oil based counterparts. They have the added benefit of being deemed safe with all condoms and toys (except silicone). Silicone based lubricants don’t tend to absorb well. They stay on the surface of the vaginal walls for reduced friction. Any residual lubricant on the external tissues may need some warm water and a gentle soap to remove.

It is important always read the label on the lubricant you are interested in buying. Some companies include ingredients that have the potential to irritate the vagina and alter its natural pH level by adding chemicals that act as preservatives or promote warming/cooling effects. Although not widely reported, over 25% of women and men report genital itching and burning following personal lubricant use. Women should try and choose a product that is optimally balanced in terms of both osmolality and pH, and is physiologically most similar to natural vaginal secretions (1).

It may be worthwhile skipping the lubricants that include the following ingredients:

-Glycols –glycol concentration is the primary factor that determines osmolality levels. Increasing concentrations of glycerin/glycerol/propylene glycol increases the lubricants osmolality level. Hyperosmotic lubricants (greater than the normal physiological range of the female reproductive tract) have been shown to increase mucosal irritation and tissue damage in a slug mucosal irritation test (1). This test is used as measure of mucus membrane tolerance. The degree of irritation can predict genital burning, heat and itching in humans. Furthermore, low concentrations of glycerine/glycerol have been shown as a food source for Candida albicans and can trigger a yeast infection for those who may be prone.

-Parabens – this is a hot topic but the concern here is that parabens mimic estrogen and has been found in the tissue of cancerous breast tissue. Parabens have the potential to be irritating to the skin and induce an allergic response as well as disrupt hormonally regulated systems within the body

For those who are trying to conceive, there is evidence to suggest that lubricant osmolality and pH levels may be worth considering when choosing a personal lubricant. Brands such as KY Jelly, Astroglide, and Replens have been shows to greatly impair sperm motility, in vitro(1). Some associations have been made to the presence of glycerine as a factor that damages the sperm membrane. Furthermore, increases in osmolality (greater than 600 mOsm/kg) have been found to reduce sperm motility. The optimum pH level for sperm migration and survival is 7.2-8.5. Pre-Seed is a brand of lubricant that was found to have no effect on sperm motility and health.

In conclusion, personal lubricants may be a wonderful option for helping increase pleasurable sensation and enhance your sexual experiences. It is always recommended to test out your skin’s sensitivity to a product by first applying a small amount to the inside of your elbow. If after a day, there is no reaction, this is a good sign that this lubricant may be a good one for you. Be sure to experiment with various lubricants if one is not suiting your needs as everyone’s body and sensitivity levels are very unique.

If you are experiencing concerns with painful intercourse due to vaginal dryness, a pelvic health physiotherapist can help you navigate through the various options available to you. Book an appointment with Leeanna Maher today!

By Leeanna Maher
Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

References:

  1. Edwards, D., Panay, N.   Treating vulvovaginal atrophy/genitourinary syndrome of menopause: how important is vaginal lubricant and moisturizer composition? Climacteric, 2016. Vol. 19, No.2, 151-161
  2. Herbenick D, et al. Association of lubricant use with women’s sexual pleasure, sexual satisfaction, and genital symptoms: a prospective daily diary study. J Sex med 2011; 8:202-212.

https://journals.lww.com/stdjournal/fulltext/2008/05000/Mucosal_Irritation_Potential_of_Personal.16.aspx

http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/managing-side-effects/sexual-problems-for-women/?region=sk

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3708353/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4819835/

Sex shop Toronto – vibrators, dildos and sex toys for women.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in ALPHA Health Services, Physiotherapy Clinic at Yonge and Eglinton- ALPHA Health Services

Signs and Symptoms of a Vestibular Disorder

Published May 29, 2018

The Vestibular System Blog Series: Part 2 –
Signs and Symptoms of a Vestibular Disorder

The vestibular system, which includes the central system (the brain and brainstem) and the peripheral system (the inner ear and the pathways to the brainstem) is responsible for maintaining balance, stability and spatial orientation. If you haven’t already read our previous blog post, here is a brief overview of the Vestibular System.

When the vestibular system is affected by disease or injury, the brain cannot get the correct information from them about balance and motion and a vestibular disorder can result.

Here are some common Signs and Symptoms that maybe associated with a vestibular disorder.

  • Dizziness (a sensation of light-headedness, faintness, or unsteadiness, it does not involve a rotational component)
  • Disequilibrium (an unsteadiness, imbalance, or loss of equilibrium while standing or walking)
  • Vertigo (the illusion of movement of self or the environment, has a rotational or spinning component)
  • Spatial disorientation (the sensation of not knowing where one’s body is in relation to the vertical and horizontal planes)
  • Sense of rocking or swaying, as if on a sip
  • Motion Sickness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Double vision
  • Oscillopsia (illusion of visual motion, only when eyes are open)

While a few moments of spatial disorientation, light-headedness or unsteadiness can be normal in certain situations, frequent episode of dizziness or vertigo are not. Often these are a primary sign of a vestibular dysfunction, especially when associated to changes in head and body position.

It is important to also note that dizziness can be associated with a wide spectrum of cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, vision, and psychological problems. Vestibular dysfunction is just one possible cause and therefore a medical assessment is recommended before starting any vestibular rehabilitation.

Jennifer Harvey
Vestibular Physiotherapist
Click here to learn more

Posted in ALPHA Health Services, Physiotherapy Clinic at Yonge and Eglinton- ALPHA Health Services

Vestibular Physiotherapy – What is the Vestibular System?

Published May 22, 2018

The Vestibular System Blog Series: Part I
What is the Vestibular System?

What is the Vestibular System?

The vestibular system is made of up three components – the central processing system (brain and brainstem), the peripheral vestibular apparatus (the inner ear and pathways to brainstem) and a system to generate motor output.

The vestibular system is also referred to as the inner ear because the peripheral vestibular apparatus resides in each ear and is connected to the cochlea which is part of the hearing mechanism.

Within the inner ear there are five organs that provide your brain with information about head movements and static postures of the head relative to gravity. How does this all work?

  • There are Three Semicircular Canals which contain fluid (endolymphatic fluid) and specialized hair cells embedded in a gel-like substance (the cupula) that act as motion sensors. When you turn your head, the fluid flows to excites the hair cells and this detect angular accelerations of the head. These canals do not detect gravity
  • There are Two Otolith Organs (Utricle and Saccule) that also contain fluid (endolymphatic fluid) and specialized hair cells embedded in a gel-like substance (the maculae) which also has calcium carbonate crystals or otoconia. These crystals give more mass to the receptors and causes the maculae to be sensitive to gravity. These organs detect tilts and translations of the head, because they respond primarily to linear acceleration forces like gravity.

Finally, the vestibular nerve is a part of the 8th cranial nerve and it provides innervation from the brain to the inner ear.

This is just a very brief overview of the components of our vestibular system. As you can see it is a complex system and when there is a problem in one or more of these components, the results can cause symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo, result in falls and affect many aspects of daily life. Keep following along for more information about balance, dizziness and common vestibular disorders.

If you are interested in booking a vestibular assessment with a registered physiotherapist with specialize training in vestibular disorders click here or call the clinic at 416-545-1881.

Jennifer Harvey
Registered Physiotherapist

Reference:

https://vestibular.org/sites/default/files/page_files/Documents/Peripheral%20Vestibular%20System.pdf

http://www.vestibularseminars.com/anatomyandphysiology.html

http://www.dizziness-and-balance.com/disorders/outline.htm

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Physiotherapy Clinic at Yonge and Eglinton- ALPHA Health Services

Pre and Post Prostatectomy Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

Published May 17, 2018

Although early detection and treatment of prostate cancer has significantly improved the outcomes of this disease over the years, the side effects of prostatectomy surgery can significantly hinder ones quality of life. The following list describes the most common symptoms associated with post prostatectomy recovery:

  1. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) – this is when there is involuntary loss of urine in varying amounts during activities such as coughing, laughing, sneezing, getting up from bed or a chair, and even walking
  2. Urge urinary incontinence (UUI) – this occurs when there is a loss of urine following a very strong and uncontrollable urge to urinate
  3. Erectile dysfunction (ED) – this is generally described as an inability to have or sustain an erection sufficient for penetration and/or climacturia (urinary leakage during orgasm)

Normally, there are two mechanisms that help keep men continent. The internal urethral sphincter (IUS) lies just below the bladder neck and is made of smooth muscle (involuntary control). The IUS is kept tonically contracted and is the primary muscle for preventing unwanted urinary leakage. The external urethral sphincter (EAS) is made up of skeletal muscle (voluntary control) and is the second component of the continence mechanism. Both the IUS and the EUS act as a “double stop” closed door system to keep the urine stored nicely in the bladder. When it is time to urinate, both the IUS and the EUS relax their muscle tone and this cues the bladder to contract and commence bladder emptying.

During removal of the prostate, the IUS is removed. With removal of this sphincter, there is a much greater reliance on the EUS mechanism for continence. The EUS is made up of the pelvic floor muscles. If the pelvic floor muscles are weakened or lack flexibility, this can contribute to the symptoms of SUI and UUI. A pelvic assessment followed by pelvic floor muscle training by a specialized physiotherapist helps those who have undergone a prostatectomy to know how to properly activate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and meet the demands of their new role. It has been shown that pelvic floor muscle training prior to prostatectomy surgery helps men regain continence sooner.

Why Should I Be Seen Before my Surgery?

Preoperative pelvic floor physiotherapy addresses and identifies any pelvic floor issues prior to surgery. This optimizes post-surgical recovery by ensuring clients can effectively identify and isolate the pelvic floor muscles. Clients are guided on initiating a safe pelvic floor strengthening program immediately upon catheter removal as well as other exercises that may help with pain management in the early post-surgical period. Preoperative physiotherapy ensures clients are aware of strategies to prevent post-surgical constipation by optimizing toileting postures, hydration and fibre intake. Straining when toileting is very strenuous to the pelvic floor muscles and can contribute to pelvic floor weakness as well as delay the recovery of the sensitive tissue around the surgical site.

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been hypothesized to be due to the mechanical stretching of the nerves that supply the penis, thermal damage to nerve tissue, and local inflammatory effects following surgery. Pre-existing factors may compound post-operative ED such as older age, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, and some medications such as hypertensives. It has been reported that 60% of men report some level of ED up to 18 months post-surgery. Postoperative erectile function has been found to improve over time, at least up to 24 months and in some series up to 48 months. Penile rehabilitation has suggested that early induced sexual stimulation and blood flow (within the first 3 months post-surgery) to the penis may help facilitate the return of natural erectile function. A comprehensive pelvic floor muscle training program aims to optimize the blood flow and nutrient exchange within the muscles that promote erectile function as well as enhance oxygenation to the injured nerves that supply the penis. Pelvic floor muscle training has been found to improve erectile function and reduce climacturia (urine leakage during orgasm) post-surgery.

If you or a loved one will be undergoing a prostatectomy in the near future, or you are still suffering from the effects of prostate surgery, start on your road to recovery by contacting ALPHA Health Services today for a pelvic health assessment.

Leeanna Maher
Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Click here to book with Leeanna

 

1) http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/prostate/statistics/?region=sk
2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2908931
3) https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/releases/2000/01/JAMAprostatectomy.html
4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18448233
5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26610857
6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21915042
7) http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/iju.12099/full
8) http://www.nature.com/ijir/journal/v28/n1/full/ijir201524.html

 

 

 

Posted in ALPHA Health Services

Stretching- What kind of stretch is the best? Ask the Physio!

Published May 12, 2018

Stretching is a form of physical exercise in which a specific muscle or tendon (or muscle group) is deliberately flexed or stretched in order to improve the muscle’s felt elasticity and achieve comfortable muscle tone. The result is a feeling of increased muscle control, flexibility, and range of motion. Stretching is also used therapeutically to alleviate cramps.

What stretch is the best stretch?

Both dynamic and static stretching can be beneficial to an overall training program. A topic of debate is which one is better for performance, and when should the stretch be performed? Two types of stretching that will be discussed are dynamic, and static stretching. Dynamic stretching involves repeated, continuous and progressive movement (e.g. leg swings) whereas static stretching involves holding a stretch for a sustained period of time.

More commonly, static stretching has played a main role in warm up routines. However, dynamic stretching has become increasingly popular due to studies showing that static stretching does not help prevent exercise-induced injuries, and can hinder some tasks such as short sprints, reaction time, and vertical jumps when it is performed pre-activity. In contrast, dynamic stretching has been found in some studies to enhance power and agility when performed before exercise. It has also been shown to improve thermoregulation and reduce lactate concentration (that burning feeling you may get in your muscles during a workout).

Does this mean that dynamic stretching is the only type of stretch we should be doing? The answer is no, static stretching is also important. Regular stretching and increased flexibility can improve performance based on sport-specific needs. There is also some preliminary evidence that static stretching can reduce musculotendinous injuries (where muscle meets tendon, e.g. where the calf muscles meet the Achilles tendon). Static stretching can be done as a separate routine but can also be performed after the muscles are already warmed up.

Overall, both forms of stretching are needed in a good training program. Muscles function best when they are at optimal length and certain sports may require more flexibility than others. If stretching and strengthening of key muscles are not done, muscle imbalances may occur. These imbalances are often a main contributing factor for many musculoskeletal conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome – stay tuned for more on this in other blog posts!

Stay active, and keep stretching!

By Olivia Skrastins
Registered Physiotherapist, ALPHA Health Services
Book Online

References:
McMillian DJ, Moore JH, Hatler BS, Taylor DC. Dynamic vs. static stretching warm up: the effect on power and agility performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 2006;20(3);492-499.
Small K, McNaughton L, Matthews M. A systematic review into the efficacy of static stretching as part of a warm up for the prevention of exercise-related injury. Research in Sports Medicine. 2008;16(3);213-231.
Posted in ALPHA Health Services

How physiotherapy can help with total hip and knee replacements

Published April 17, 2018

Prevention is key.

In a recent CBC article titled, “Wait times for hip and knee replacement grow in Canada”, Dr. Gollish (orthopedic surgeon at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre) states the increased demand for these replacements comes from the demographic shift in the Canadian population, to patients over 65 years of age. The article states that “Across the country, 76 per cent of patients received a hip replacement in 2017 within the recommended six-month wait time, down from 81 per cent in 2015. For knee replacements, 69 per cent of patients had the procedure within the benchmark in 2017, compared to 82 per cent in 2015.”

Photo from “Wait times for hip and knee replacement grow in Canada” CBC News.

Wait times for hip and knee replacement are an issue in the Canadian Health System, and likely wait times will continue to lengthen unless the federal government invests some money into increasing the number of surgeries preformed. Or… what if we took a preventative stand point? What if physiotherapists worked with patients to maintain joint integrity, stability, and muscle strength, to perhaps allowing joints to maintain their integrity for longer, and a decreased need for a replacement. What if a preventive strategy could lessen the wait times for a reactive surgery? I am not saying physiotherapy can replace a joint replacement, as there are many circumstances where the only option for decreased pain, increased mobility, and function is a replacement. But why can’t physiotherapy be used to bridge the gap, have less people waiting in pain, and take some of the pressure of our health care system?

OHIP physiotherapy services were drastically cut in 2012, meaning the majority of physiotherapy services are obtained in the private sector. Educating patients about how physiotherapy can prevent degeneration, and promote functionality, could lead to more healthy patients, and a reduced load on the public system.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we will discuss how exactly physiotherapy can help prevent joint degeneration, prepare you for a joint replacement, and help with rehabilitating patients post surgery.

To read the full article on CBC, click here.

-Charlotte Anderson
Physiotherapist, ALPHA Health Services

 

Posted in ALPHA Health Services

Physiotherapy at Yonge and Eglinton- Meet Olivia

Published April 9, 2018

Meet Olivia Skrastins, Registered Physiotherapist.

Olivia graduated from the University of Toronto with her Masters in Physical Therapy in 2017. Olivia is passionate about orthopaedic manual therapy and is committed to continuing her education in this area. She has completed a basic sports taping course, a soft tissue release course and has received her Level 1 Manual Therapy certification from the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. She is interested in sports rehabilitation and enjoys working with a diverse population. Olivia is excited to have the opportunity to help patients reach their goals and maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Why did you become a physiotherapist?

I have always enjoyed fitness, interacting with others and being creative. Physiotherapy allows me to incorporate all those interests and use them to help others achieve their goals. As physiotherapists, we have the opportunity to help people with their mobility, which is necessary for every day life!

What did you learn about physiotherapy as you were going through school that you didn’t know before?

I learned that physiotherapy is both an art and a science. Treatment can be approached in many creative ways but there is an underlying anatomical and physiological basis for everything we do. I also learned that you never stop learning! What conditions do you like to treat?

I like to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. However, I do particularly enjoy treating patellar femoral pain, which is often influenced by muscle imbalances and by our alignment during every day activities and exercise.

What is your ‘rehab philosophy’?

My rehab philosophy is quality first! I think it’s important to focus on quality of movement and education, which can lead to injury prevention.

To book with Olivia, click here.

Posted in ALPHA Health Services

Physiotherapy for Low Back Pain.

Published March 25, 2018

Low Back Pain – Rest, Drugs or Surgery are Not Always the Answer!

If you have been browsing the news headlines or scrolling through your facebook feed in the last day like I have been, you may have noticed several articles criticizing current treatment for low back pain. Major news outlets, such as Global news (click here to see the article) and NBC news (click here to see the article), highlighted results of a recently published study in the Lancet Medical Journal. This paper outlines how our current strategy of bed rest, prescription medications, scans or surgery are not helpful in treating low back pain and associated disability for majority of people.

So, what is something that can help?
Movement! Exercise! Being Active!

“The best cure for most people? Exercise. Regular movement is the best way to help with the vast majority of cases of low back pain, according to Doug Gross, a co-author of the study and a professor of physical therapy at the University of Alberta.” …. “Exercise-wise, what’s most important is finding a program that you can stick to, said Gross.” (Global News Article)

“Studies show what works best to treat lower back pain: physical therapy, psychological counseling, stretching, massage and other non-invasive treatments. Rest rarely helps: all patients should be urged to stay active.” (NBC news Article)

It is exciting to see more attention and research being given to the importance of movement and regular exercise. This is something I really believe to be true, as do all of us at ALPHA Health Services. A physiotherapist can help you with prescribing the RIGHT movement and exercise to help you decrease and prevent lower back pain.

By Jennifer Harvey
Registered Physiotherapist 

 

Posted in ALPHA Health Services
1 2 3 … 7