Chances are you’ve never heard of astaxanthin but if you’ve ever eaten salmon, shrimp, lobster, and crab, you’ve eaten it – not to worry, this is a good thing. Astaxanthin is skyrocketing to stardom, and with good reason, research is finding it to hold many health-promoting properties. What the heck is astaxanthin? Astaxanthin is a

Product: Imperial Cinnamon Spread Manufacturer: Unilever Canada The Position: Delicious on toast, pancakes and waffles. May also be used as a tart or cake filling Ingredients: sugar, soybean oil, modified palm and palm kernel oil, spices, salt, BHA, artificial flavour, citric acid, and sulphites Analysis: Considering I could not get, as hard as I tried,

Consumption Of Probiotics Associated With Reduced Risk Of Diarrhea From Antibiotic Use Consuming probiotics reduces the risk of diarrhea caused by antibiotic usage, researchers from RAND Health, Santa Monica, California reported in Jama (Journal of the American Medical Association). Oral Zinc Found To Reduce Common Cold Symptoms In Adults More Than Kids People who take

I don’t know if you’ve seen the commercials for the new McDonald’s McCafe Smoothies? There’s one where a runner puts down two pieces of fruit on a park bench, a mango and pineapple, bends down to tie his shoe, goes back to grab the fruit and presto, chango – there’s now a mango pineapple smoothie. The implied message is clear, McDonald’s new smoothie is just like eating real fruit…

Quinoa 1/2 cup quinoa (washed) 1 cup water Salad ingredients (minus the quinoa) 1 mango cut into cubes 1/2 cup blueberries 1 medium cucumber cut into cubes 1/4 cup dried cranberries Dressing 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Juice from 1 lemon 1 teaspoon orange marmalade 10 Basil leaves chopped finely Salt and pepper to

According to  new study in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, consumption of very high amounts of beta-carotene could be worrisome because it blocks the action of vitamin A rather than enhancing it. What are carotenoids? Beta carotene is one of at least 500 identified carotenoids found in nature, pigments that give plants their respective colours,

Product: Voortman Strawberry Turnover Cookies Manufacturer: Voortman Canada The Position: so delightfully soft and chewy….made more special by the great tasting real fruit filling Ingredients: enriched wheat flour, sugar, strawberry filing (strawberries, glucose-fructose, glucose, modified corn starch, sugar, citric acid, pectin, monocalcium phosphate, potassium sorbate, sodium citrate, sodium benzoate, colour, artificial flavour), glucose-fructose, vegetable oil

With dietary guidelines encouraging people to include sources of whole grains in their diet, food manufacturers have jumped on board by using health claims, nutrient content claims and other nutrition information on food labels, but what does it mean when a product states that it’s made with ‘whole grains’, ‘whole wheat’ or ‘multi-grain’ or is

With only 95 calories per 1/2 cup and loads of disease-fighting antioxidants, sweet potatoes are an all-round healthy choice.  Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant which studies have shown can help to protect against certain cancers and heart disease, as well as, improve the texture and appearance of our skin. While there’s

The Biggest Loser Destroys Participants’ Metabolisms Eat less and exercise more tells the body to go into starvation mode Doubts Over Long Term Impact Of Group Education For Diabetes Patients A study published in BMJ (British Medical Journal) states that there are no long term benefits from type 2 diabetes group education programs that only

Looking for something different from the usual olive oil? Have you tried avocado oil? Avocado oil is one of my staple oils along side extra virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil, and macadamia nut oil. Avocado oil is new to most people. As a culinary, or cooking oil, avocado oil compares to olive oil. Both

The Smarter Science of Slim is the brainchild of author Jonathon Bailor who states it’s the compilation of 10 years worth of research on the science of weight gain, weight loss, and exercise. The list of references is impressive to say the least, some 70 pages worth of science-based research to support it. Despite the

Vitamin K2 has been referred to by many as the new vitamin D. Ironically, while it seems like a new nutrient, it was first described some 80 years ago but due to some misnaming of the vitamin and a lack of understanding in its role, vitamin K2 was lost for some 80 years. Although it’s

We are looking for an enthusiastic physiotherapist with a minimum of 2 years post graduate experience in Vestibular Physiotherapy/Rehabilitation to work in a multidisciplinary clinic that includes primary care physicians, specialists, and allied health care professionals including occupational therapists and massage therapists in a cutting edge 13,500 sqft facility.

Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduate of an accredited School of Physiotherapy
• Member in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario for a minimum of 2 years
• Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
• Certified with the AFCI or equivalent
• Experience in developing and maintaining standards of practice
• Strong team player
• Excellent communications and report writing skills

If you would like to apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter in confidence as an MS Word document to Massimo Cimini.

We are looking for an enthusiastic physiotherapist with a minimum of 5 years post graduate experience in Physiotherapy/Rehabilitation to work in a multidisciplinary clinic that includes primary care physicians, specialists, and allied health care professionals including occupational therapists and massage therapists in a cutting edge 13,500 sqft facility.

A strong background in Manual Therapy, certification in Acupuncture through a recognized organization such as AFCI are prerequisites.

The applicant must have experience in working in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation setting.

Our case load is diverse and includes complex injuries, brain Injuries, as well as acute orthopaedic and persistent pain patients.

Experience in program development and implementation is an asset.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduate of an accredited School of Physiotherapy
• Member in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario for a minimum of 5 years
• Member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
• Manual therapy preferably minimum part A
• Certified with the AFCI or equivalent
• Experience in developing and maintaining standards of practice
• Strong team player
• Excellent communications and report writing skills

If you would like to apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter in confidence as an MS Word document to Massimo Cimini.

Chris Kresser is a Licensed Acupuncturist and health researcher who’s blog I follow. Chris, like many others in the field of health such as Chris Masterjohn, and Stephan Guyenet, do a wonderful job at distilling health information, basic sciences and physiology, for both those without any science background and for those who do, in relatively

Link Between Obesity And Heightened Sensitivity To Cheap, High-Calorie Food Obesity is increasing worldwide in adults and children and is currently viewed by many as one of the most serious threats to public health. It is likely that solutions to the obesity pandemic will require changes in public policy and that scientific insight into obesity

For a small vegetable, garlic (Allium sativum) sure has a big, and well deserved, reputation. And although garlic may not always bring good luck, protect against evil, or ward off vampires, characteristics to which it has been assigned in folk lore (no doubt to its high sulfur and pungent odour and flavour), it is guaranteed

High fructose corn syrup is a blend of two single sugars; glucose and fructose. Sucrose, or table sugar, is a disaccharide or double sugar, where two sugars are still connected and contains 50% fructose and 50% glucose. Honey, is also typically composed of 50% fructose and 50% glucose and like high fructose corn syrup, the

Before you turn away from embarrassment – let’s look at the facts: Colorectal or colon cancer is the #2 cancer killer of men and women, yet it is 90% treatable when caught early.
Yet in 2011, over 22,200 Canadians were diagnosed with colon cancer and nearly half died from the disease. 

That is something to be embarrassed about as a nation.

Why have we not beat this disease? Maybe because it is a taboo ‘area’ to talk with our family or doctor about? Maybe because in many cases there are no symptoms and when finally detected, it has progressed to higher stages of the disease?

Either way, the best solution to get over the stigma of colon cancer is to talk about it and get tested.

March is ‘Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month’ and to fight the disease the Canadian Cancer Society in Ontario encourages people 50 years plus of average
risk to ‘stick it to colon cancer’
by taking a private at home stick test.

It is so important to screen for the disease before symptoms become apparent, and it is easy!  But first some colon cancer information.

Causes of Colon Cancer:

There is no single cause of colon cancer. Nearly all colon cancers begin as noncancerous (benign) polyps, which slowly develop into cancer. Some factors include:

• Age – People 50+ are more at risk of getting colon cancer – at this age there is a higher chance of having polyps (see below).
• Alcohol – Heavy use of alcohol (especially beer and spirits) can increase the risk up to 300%. Drinking a glass or two of wine each week however can cut the risk of colon cancer by more than 60 percent.
• Diabetes - People with type 2 (usually non insulin dependent) diabetes may have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• Diet - Diets high in fat and cholesterol (especially red and processed meats have been found to cause colon cancer. Low-fiber diets have also been associated with increased risk.
• Family History - Colon cancer can run in the family. Whether you’re at increased risk depends on which family member was diagnosed and at what age. It may not be genetic but could be from shared exposure to an environmental carcinogen, or type of lifestyle or diet.
• Genetics - Researchers estimate that about 25% of colon cancer cases have some sort of genetic link. Genetic syndromes passed through generations of one’s family can increase one’s risk of developing colon cancer.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Inflammatory bowel disease, often characterized by conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Chron’s disease, increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• Lack of Exercise - Research has shown that a sedentary lifestyle contributes to colon cancer development.
• Polyps - Almost all colon cancer develops from adenomatous ( pre-malignant) polyps in the colon, generally referred to simply as colon polyps. A personal or family history of polyps puts you at higher risk for colon cancer.
• Smoking - Long-term cigarette smoking causes colon cancer for two main reasons. First, inhaled or swallowed tobacco smoke transports carcinogens to the colon. Second, tobacco use appears to increase polyp size.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer:

Some people do not feel any symptoms with CRC (Colorectal Cancer) – but the following list represents the most documented signs (these symptoms are common for other health issues so a doctor should be seen to diagnose)

• Blood in or on the stool (either bright red or very dark in colour).
• A persistent change in normal bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or both, for no apparent reason.
• Frequent or constant cramps if they last for more than a few days.
• Stools that are narrower than usual.
• General stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness and/or cramps).
• Frequent gas pains.
• A strong and continuing need to move your bowels, but with little stool.
• A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely.
• Weight loss for no known reason.
• Constant tiredness.

Prevention of Colon Cancer:

• SCREENING! - If you’re 50 or older, schedule a colon cancer screening.  Either with your physician or through a home screening kit.
• Healthy Diet - High-fiber diets, vegetables and fruits with moderate amounts of red-meats will help protect from getting colon cancer.
• Healthy Weight – Obeseity has been linked to higher risk of colon cancer in men and women – mostly with extra fat around waist or thighs and hips.
• Exercise – Again.. An active lifestyle does so much for your overall health and can decrease the risk of colon cancer by 40%.
• Family History – If you are unsure about colon cancer in your family – talk with your parents and grandparents. If there are cases of any kind of polyps or cancer, be sure to inform your doctor.
• Don’t smoke – enough said!

Taking the (FOTB) screening kit test:

The FOTB (Fecal Occult Blood Test) is a simple test you can do at home. The test can detect invisible traces of blood in your stool (blood in your stool does not mean you have colon cancer!)  It is just a warning sign that should have further investigation by your health provider.

Screening Kits are available at our downtown Toronto clinic and instructions on how to perform the test can be read here.

Support Colon Cancer Awareness!

At www.coloncancercanada.ca spokespeople such as Anne Murray, Adam van Koeverden, Darryl Sittler, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Neil Crone & Pamela Wallin are speaking out about Colon Cancer and offer free Public Service Announcement media downloads.

Spread the word – Colon Cancer is BEATABLE!

These days, ‘Beauty is only skin deep’ takes on a whole new meaning for women young and old - with type 2 diabetes cases growing in numbers every year in Canada.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Your body gets energy by making glucose (sugar) from foods like bread, potatoes, rice, pasta, milk and fruit. To use this glucose, your body needs insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood. Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which your pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or your body does not properly use the insulin it makes. If you have type 2 diabetes, glucose builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy. * (from Canadian Diabetes Association)

It used to be viewed that inactive, overweight people on junk-food diets where the ones who eventually developed type 2 diabetes.  Being overweight is still a major factor for developing it, but other risk factors exist.  Family history, ethnicity, age, lack of exercise, and food choices are also factors. In fact the amount of average weight or skinny people developing type 2 is increasing. 

With more and more young women getting type 2 diabetes, it could also be called the ‘skinny girl disease’. Their body image looks healthy and trim, but on the inside, deep visceral fat (hidden fat) can build up around the abdominal organs (liver, stomach, intestines, pancreas, gallbladder). Visceral fat is far worse for the body then surface fat (subcutaneous fat), and is much harder to loose then the cellulite in your legs!

Because visceral fat wraps itself around these important organs, it can cause compression and inflammatory substances to affect your liver and pancreas, and lower your insulin sensitivity,(insulin resistance**) putting you at risk for type 2. There are other health issues that can occur as well but the biggest danger related to visceral fat is that it can go undetected - as in many cases it is not visible from the outside of the body.

Lifestyles of many women these days include lack of exercise, poor diet and being stressed from careers, family and other obligations.

These are the areas that need to be addressed in order to fight visceral fat from forming:

#1 - Regular Exercise!

The number one way to stop visceral fat from forming (or to get rid of it) is regular exercise, 30 minutes, two to four times a week.  Moderate aerobic exercise that causes you to sweat is key in lowering blood sugar (muscles absorb glucose in greater amounts during exercise).

#2 - Proper Long Term Diet

Yo-yo dieting does not work to loose visceral fat! You must incorporate healthy eating habits such as:

• Reduce added fat intake (butter, margarine, mayonnaise.. etc)
• Eat smaller portions. Eat foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts in between meals.
• Switch to lower fat dairy products. Don’t give up dairy completely unless you are lactose intolerant.
• Limit the amount of sweets you have. Visceral fat is related to high sugar intake.
• Drink water. Water helps cleanse the body of toxins, drain retained water, and suppress the appetite.
• Add more soluble fiber to diet. Found primarily in oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, barley, and psyllium..

#3 - Reduce Stress

When you are stressed your body produces a hormone called cortisol. This hormone gives your body a boost of energy to cope (“fight or flight” response), but it also elevates blood-sugar levels at the same time – not good if you suffer from chronic stress issues. High levels of cortisol in your body also cause fat to be relocated and deposited into the deep visceral fat layers of normal weight women eventually contributing to type 2 diabetes. Chronic stress can even trump regular exercise and proper diet as it will still increase blood-sugar levels on it’s own – potentially bringing type 2 diabetes with it.

Diabetes is slowly becoming an epidemic in Canada.

It is linked to close to 40,000 deaths a year with thousands more people sick from it, including more and more young women and children. Type 2 diabetes is now the most common form of the disease, affecting nine out of 10 Canadian diabetics. But Canadian public health officials say Type 2 diabetes is preventable through diet and exercise.*** (from public health Canada)
Findings from the Harvard Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study suggest that walking briskly for a half hour every day reduces the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes by 30%. **** (from HSPH)

In today’s world so much value is given to appearance to gauge one’s health, making it hard to look past your body image, into your inner health.  Accompanying our busy lifestyles, are conveniences to make it easier - but it is these shortcuts that could be detrimental to our health in the long-run.

Maybe next lunch break, go for a walk. Instead of driving and picking something up from a fast food place, walk to a healthy restaurant, cafe or store for lunch each day.  It would take care of two of the Fat-Fighting steps above. It might also relieve some stress out of your day as well!

Reference

* http://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/living/just-diagnosed/type2/

** insulin resistance: Tissue responsiveness to insulin, meaning how successfully the receptor operates to permit glucose clearance, is termed insulin sensitivity. In the case of optimal insulin sensitivity, after a high sugar meal, insulin rises sharply, pushing glucose into the tissues rapidly, then dissipates. In the case of poor insulin sensitivity, however, insulin’s elevation is sustained due to an inability to force glucose into muscle tissues. Read more: Insulin Resistance Vs. Insulin Sensitivity Definition | http://www.ehow.com/facts_5724311_insulin-vs_-insulin-sensitivity-definition.html#ixzz1mZCtOtvG

*** http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cd-mc/publications/diabetes-diabete/facts-figures-faits-chiffres-2011/chap5-eng.php

**** http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/more/diabetes-full-story/index.html#Simple_steps

Dear Friends & Colleagues:

HAPPY 2012!

ALL OF US AT REINHOLD REHABILITATION SERVICES and BPHEALTH HOPE THIS YEAR WILL BRING HEALTH, PEACE AND PROSPERITY TO EVERY ONE.

I am very pleased to announce that Jennifer Huber, Registered Physiotherapist is returning to us after her maternity leave.  Jennifer worked here for eight years prior to starting her family.  Many of you are familiar with her excellent physiotherapy skills and compassion.  She will be providing home care physiotherapy assessments and treatments to patients who have been discharged from hospital, but are too acute to attend our clinic.

Jennifer will work closely with the attending occupational therapist and the treatment team. She will be the most appropriate person to evaluate if and when a patient is ready to progress to clinic management and she will make the transition easy for the patients.

We are very happy to finally be able to provide this service which many of you have been requesting. 

We have a new Registered Massage Therapist, Steve Camara. Steve started with us in December and is already busy but is looking to add another day to his schedule to accommodate any patient.

Our Pilates Program starts up again on January 17, 2012 and everyone is welcome.

All of us look forward to a busy 2012 and to work closely with you and your team.

Best Regards,

Irene Reinhold
Director of Physiotherapy
Reinhold Rehabilitation (bphealth clinic)

Occupational therapy services to children ranging in age from toddlers to young adults can help them prepare for and achieve their full potential in their life roles.  Comprehensive assessments, customized intervention, family support and consultation services can be provided by pediatric occupational therapists.

The development of play, self-care, school and social skills enable children to successfully perform their daily activities and prepare for adult life roles.

The occupational therapists team with the child’s parents, teacher and other professionals such as speech and language therapists, behaviour consultants and psychologists can provide a coordinated and effective plan that will help the child reach their potential.

Some examples of areas that occupational therapists can help support include:

• Self care skills such as dressing, bathing, eating
• Sensory and behaviour strategies for feeding
• Pre-printing, printing and cursive writing
• Fine and gross motor skill development
• Eye-hand coordination for play, writing and drawing
• Sensory strategies to improve attention and behaviour
• Environmental adaptations at home and school
• Social skills for play
• Organization, memory, planning and sequencing skills for homework completion
• Education and vocational planning
• Attendant care needs following accident or injury

When can an occupational therapist help?

Think of all the skills that children are trying to master at each stage.  When children experience difficulties at any stage of development, an occupational therapist is trained to evaluate the underlying deficits and create strategies to help remedy or work around the problem. 

Here are just a few examples of skills at each stage that occupational therapists may assist the child to develop:

• Toddlers: learning to self-feed, throw a small ball, soothing oneself to sleep, learning to walk and run.


• Preschoolers: learning to dress and undress, pouring from one container to another, turning the pages of a book, matching shapes and colours, colouring and cutting with scissors, hopping jumping and climbing, playing with friends, riding a tricycle.


• Elementary School Age: learning to print and write, throwing and catching a ball, copying from the blackboard, following moving objects with the eyes, completing puzzles, following directions, doing school work independently, completing simple household chores, attending birthday parties, participating in gym and sports.


• High School Age: developing life skills, managing time and money, planning and organizing to complete school work,  participating in work and social activities, exploring future education and vocational options.

For more information on our pediatric occupational therapy services in Toronto and Hamilton please Click Here.

Another year is coming to a close and a brand new one is around the corner. Every year people make New Year’s resolutions on how they will emerge as a shiny new, healthy version of themselves: “New and Improved - Bob v.7.5.”

Unfortunately, in most cases the new version does not live up to December expectations and we carry on with our lifestyle as it was, with little change.

Why can’t we stick to it? Why can’t we be the new ‘healthy version’ we have framed in our mind? Maybe it is the undue pressure of New Year’s Eve that hypes it up to much, inevitability being too big of a hill to climb in January?

What is needed is commitment. But it is the holiday season soon, so full of indulgence; where motivation empties quicker then the egg nog. All the more reason to start now, before the holiday season begins - get a head start and climb that hill before hanging the new calendar.

“OK.. I’m going to do it!”, you say.  How?  A personal trainer may be the answer. What you lack in motivation and commitment, a trainer has in abundance. That’s their job, to stay healthy and be motivated, so you won’t have to worry about loosing interest. 

A good trainer will assess your present fitness level and create a program right for you. A good trainer will start off slow to make sure you get the proper techniques down, then once familiar on how to do the exercises properly, increase the difficulty.

Before you know it (usually this is in two weeks) you will notice a difference in your health, energy and overall well-being.  What better way to attack the holidays with this new regime and bounce to your step. By the time December 31st comes along, you won’t feel like you need to make a resolution to be healthier.. you already will be healthier.

When ‘Bob v.7.6’ is launched in January, there will be no disappointments on functionality or performance – just a solid improvement from your work done in December.

Learn more about our personal training services at our Toronto clinic and Happy New Year in advance! 

With the recent infection scare at an Ottawa clinic, the importance of cleanliness in healthcare facilities is well founded. Patients may expect that clinics are as clean as hospitals, but clearly this isn’t the case.  All clinics need to follow the proper cleaning methods, precautions and infection guidelines to ensure the prevention of infection to patients and the staff that work there.

This starts with implementing basic infection prevention and control practices that are performed by clinic health care providers and staff. Best cleaning practices PDF

Some of the infection control steps and/or education (taken from best practices PDF) should emphasize:

1. disease transmission, the risks associated with infectious diseases and basic epidemiology of HAIs (Health Care-Associated Infections) specific to the setting; 


2. the benefits of case finding/surveillance and the extent and nature of existing and potential problems related to infection in the organization


3. hand hygiene and basic personal hygiene, including the use of alcohol-based hand rubs and hand washing;


4. principles and components of Routine Practices as well as additional transmission-based precautions;


5. assessment of the risk of infection transmission and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safe application, removal and disposal;


6. appropriate cleaning and/or disinfection of health care equipment, supplies and surfaces or items in the health care environment (e.g., beds, bed tables, call bells, toilets, privacy curtains);


7. aseptic practices;  (procedure that is performed under sterile conditions.)


8. the importance of proper and prudent use of antimicrobial agents (antibiotics);


9. individual staff responsibility for keeping clients/patients/residents, themselves and coworkers safe; 


10. prevention of blood and body fluid exposure; and


11. early recognition of symptoms of transmissible infections and outbreaks

Clinics should also address best practices for environmental cleaning for the prevention and control of infections.  Proper control of the following environmental services and areas are recommended:

1. handling of laundry


2. waste management


3. reprocessing of medical equipment


4. food handling and storage


5. facility design and construction

It is also important that the clinic staff have appropriate training to provide a clean and safe environment.  The more people that have proper training makes it easier and more efficient to train new staff when needed. There also needs to be adequate staff to provide the amount of cleaning necessary on a regular schedule as well as extra environmental cleaning during outbreaks.

When choosing a medical clinic in Toronto, here are a few tips that may help:

1. Research the physicians that work at the clinic, if they also work at local hospitals you know they are well trained and are up-to-date on all infection control practices.


2. Search online for the clinic and look for reviews -  a good overall rating from other patients could help you with your search. Most clinic reviews will mention how clean the clinic appeared as it is important for patients.


3. Sometimes the closest clinic to you may not be the best choice.  If your research includes clinics that are a bit further away – it may be worth the commute.


4. On your first visit have a good look at the overall appearance, usually an under-staffed clinic may not be as tidy as staff are busy with many other tasks.


5. Some clinics present a cleaning schedule checklist that shows how recent and thorough the clinic was cleaned. This is a good sign the staff take cleanliness seriously and are well organized to do so. If records are not visible you could ask to see them and if there are none available, it may be a warning sign.


6. Finally take note of how the staff treat you on the first visit – it is a good sign they take pride in their work and surroundings if they are friendly and helpful with you.

Bphealth clinics take infection control very seriously and welcome your questions regarding our best practices and procedures.

When sourcing a medical clinic for your health issues it is important that they can offer a wide range of treatment options for your specific condition. Once the conditions are diagnosed the health professionals can then use a combination of techniques to best treat you. With these treatment options available you will be on the best route to recovery and long-term health.

Some of the medical conditions clinic physicians treat include:

• Travel vaccines
• Minor procedures
• Cold and common flu
• Physical exams
• Disease prevention
• Sexual education

Some of the conditions commonly treated by clinic health professionals are:

• Headaches
• Acute/Chronic Neck and Low back pain
• Sports injuries (Sprains/Strains)
• Whiplash injuries (MVA)
• Work-related injuries (WSIB)
• Repetitive strain injuries (Carpal tunnel, Rotator cuff tear, Plantar Fasciitis)
• Pre-and post-operative conditions
• Degenerative joint conditions (Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis)
• Gait and foot dysfunctions
• Pregnancy and Labour support
• Fibromyalgia

Treatments often used by clinic health professionals include:

• Specific joint mobilizations
• Active release technique
• Laser techniques
• Therapeutic exercises/ activities
• Manual therapy
• Electrical stimulation
• Ultrasound/heat/cold therapy
• Medical acupuncture
• Nutrition plans
• Deep tissue massage
• Myofascial release
• Athletic taping and bracing support
• Patient education
• Home-based exercise program

At our Toronto walk-in clinic we have the health services to get you or your family feeling better.

Autumn has arrived and with it another season is soon to follow… The flu season.  In Ontario the flu season lasts from November to April with most cases occurring between December and March. Getting the shot before the before the peak of the season gives the body a chance to build up immunity to, or protection from, the virus. Although you can get a flu shot well into flu season, it’s best to try to get it earlier rather than later. The flu shot is free of charge for people who live, work or study in Ontario.

What is the flu shot? It is an annual immunization against three strains of the influenza (flu) viruses expected to circulate for that year. Flu shots contain inactive (dead) flu viruses that prompt your body to make antibodies that fight those viruses. Vaccinations help your body build natural immunities by triggering a natural response from your immune system.

A common myth about the flu shot is that it can actually cause the flu. But the flu shot is made from dead influenza viruses, which means that it’s impossible to catch the flu by receiving it.

Like any medicines there are potential risks but serious side effects are extremely rare with the flu shot. Most people have no side effects while some may experience mild effects at the injection area including soreness, redness and swelling. Life-threatening allergic reactions are very rare! If they occur they usually happen shortly after receiving the vaccine. It is good practice to stay at clinic for 20min after the shot, just as a precaution.

Who should get it? The flu shot is recommended for everyone over six months of age and is strongly encouraged for the following people:

• people with weakened immune systems
• young children
• the elderly
• pregnant women
• family members and those who provide care to people in the groups listed above should also get the flu shot to protect themselves and those around them.

Where to get the flu shot? Ontarians can get their free flu shot from their physicians and through community flu clinics offered across the province by public health units, community health centres, community care access centres, hospitals, long-term care homes, pharmacy-based clinics and workplace clinics.

If you live or work in downtown Toronto you can get your flu shot at bphealth clinic on 345 Adelaide Street West (3rd Floor), Monday to Friday from 10-6pm on a walk-in and appointment basis.

Other precautions that can help protect you and your family from the flu include:

• avoiding large crowds whenever possible
• practicing good hand washing
• never picking up used tissues
• never sharing cups and eating utensils
• staying home from work or school when someone is sick with the flu
• covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze

More information on the flu shot is available from the Ontario Ministry of Health website:
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/publichealth/flu/about_flu_shot.aspx

Download flu fact sheet here.

It’s that time of year again – the days are getting shorter, the CNE has come into town and as the commercials state, ‘it’s the most wonderful time of the year’ if you’re a parent.
It’s time for back to school shopping!

One item that’s top on the list for those heading back to school is purchasing backpacks.  People often wonder what to look for in a backpack.  Some look for the chic and most stylish bags and others go with something more practical.  Below is a great informational resource courtesy of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association to help assist those in the market for a new backpack and provide features you should look for in a backpack regardless of age.

Click link to download PDF:
Choosing the right backpacks for back to school.

Shoulder pain and injuries are becoming more prevalent in physiotherapy – for most people what begins as an uncomfortable shoulder ache and pain fades away on it’s own, but for others it continues and the pain becomes more persistent and intense, proceeding to a point where there is noticeable loss of shoulder function with day to day activities such as dressing and cleaning.  Moreover, the loss in shoulder function also has an effect on peoples work and/or recreational activities, the end result being people suffering from shoulder impingement.

Shoulder impingement syndrome is the compression and irritation of one or more of the following structures in the shoulder under the acromial arch: rotator cuff tendons, subacromial bursa, and biceps tendon.  Usually the signs and symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome include pain/stiffness (especially with arm elevation and overhead activities), decreased mobility and function (reaching behind your back), weakness and pain at night.  Pain can vary depending on the severity of the impingement – initially starts off as a dull ache with tenderness in the shoulder to sharp pain with certain movement of the shoulder that radiates.

Shoulder impingement can occur in any age group and can be the result of repetitive overhead shoulder movements often seen in athletes i.e. swimmers, baseball players and from repetitive job duties especially for those who work in construction, painters, assembly line workers etc.  Sudden injury to the shoulder can also lead to the development of shoulder impingement syndrome if left untreated and the individual continue to do activities which may exacerbate symptoms.  There are several other factors that can play part in contributing to an impingement syndrome such as posture, degenerative changes to the shoulder girdle, and muscle imbalances to name a few.

Management of shoulder impingement involves the following:

• Rest and activity modification:  shoulder movements (overhead and repetitive in nature) that further aggravate the shoulder pain are avoided.  Use of a NSAID and ice can further help alleviate some of the symptoms


• Physiotherapy is effective in the treatment of shoulder impingement:
  
  • TENS/IFC, Laser/ultrasound treatments for pain and symptomatic relief
  • Manual therapy (joint mobilizations, stretching)
  • Therapeutic exercises for ROM, strengthening and conditioning
  • Patient education (posture/ergonomics)
  • Home-based exercise program

Knee injuries have plagued athletes over the years, often hindering performance and sometimes ending careers. As if his woes on and off the links is not enough, Tiger Woods has had his share of knee problems. In June 2008, he underwent reconstructive knee surgery, which sidelined him for eight months. Last month, Tiger sprained his left medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the knee at the Masters. This injury, along with a sprained Achilles tendon, forced him out of the Players Championship last month.

Most knee ligament injuries result from the knee being struck from a specific direction. In sports such as football and basketball, agility and quickness is essential for success. The combination of running, jumping and changing directions quickly can put considerable stress on the knees.

Ligament stretching or tears are called sprains. In a first-degree sprain, the ligaments stretch but the fibres do not tear. In a second-degree sprain the fibres tear partially, but the ligament keeps some integrity. Second-degree sprains (grade 1) are similar to first-degree sprains, while the more severe second degree sprain (grade 2) is closer to a third-degree sprain. In a third-degree sprain, the ligament is completely ruptured.

Sometimes, the ligaments in the knee can get damaged without a blow to the knee.  For instance, an athlete may change directions suddenly and hear a “pop” with their knee giving out. This is most likely an anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACL). ACL injuries occur more often in women than in men. One theory is women have a wider Q (Quadriceps)-angle. Basically this means that women have a wider pelvis which may put more stress on the knees. If you want to measure your own Q-angle, draw a straight from the Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) – which is the bone in front of the hip, to the centre of the kneecap and then to the bump below it called the tibial tuberostity.

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries are caused when the outside of the knee is struck while the foot is planted on the ground, pushing the knee inward.  If the blow is vast enough the ACL and, or medial meniscus (cartilage that attaches to MCL) may also be torn. When all three structures are damaged, this is known as a terrible triad.

Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries occur less often than MCL injuries. This is because the force is directed to the medial aspect of the knee, forcing the knee outward. The opposite leg is normally in the way, protecting the medial side of the knee.

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can be injured by a forceful landing on the tibial tuberosity, while the knee is flexed at 90°. This may drive the tibia (bone in lower leg) backwards on the femur (thigh bone) rupturing the ligament. The PCL can also be injured in combination with either an MCL or LCL injury.

A first-degree sprain is treated with RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), rehabilitative exercises and possibly protective bracing.

A second-degree sprain (grade 1) should be treated similarly to a first-degree sprain, except a knee support should be used until the condition improves. A second-degree sprain (grade 2) should be treated with PRICEM (protective bracing, ice, compression and elevation) to control any swelling. Pain-free range-of-motion exercise can be introduced immediately. Crutches should be used until the knee has healed back to full strength. Surgery is rarely necessary.

Third-degree sprains may require surgery if more than one ligament has been damaged ie. terrible triad.

Sports Injury Therapy treatments after a knee injury, will strengthen the muscles around the knee and support the joints by decreasing the load on it. A sound rehabilitation routine may consist the following:

• Flexibility
• Proprioception: The ability of the body to determine joint position in space
• Electrical muscle stimulation:  To re-educate malfunctioning muscles
• *Cold laser therapy - To increase the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which is the body’s energy source. This encourages cell division which facilitates speedy healing of tissues
• Other modalities – Ultrasound, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

*Previously, cold laser therapy was only available to individuals in Europe and to elite athletes in North America.  The Theralase laser is by far the most effective laser in the industry. Used by the Toronto Blue Jays, Major League Baseball pitcher Roy Halliday and tennis’s superstar William sisters, bphealth clinics utilize the Theralase laser as an integral part of our patient’s healing process.

So, will Tiger’s professional golf career be in jeopardy, because of chronic knee problems?

With technology where it is today, Woods will be part of the PGA tour for a long time. As long as his mental approach to the game improves.

In the past decade, there has been a growing recognition for improving one’s strength and flexibility to become a better golfer. Still, after endless sessions with a golf professional to correct your swing and countless hours on the driving range and courses, you may be missing the one key piece of the puzzle - Golf Performance Therapy.

Golf is a rotational sport that strains one side of the body more than the other. The body is continuously being torqued in one direction, often creating muscular imbalance. This lack of body symmetry can lead to stiffness, chronic pain and an increased risk of injury, which all affects performance.

Golfers are unaware of the muscular tightness and imbalances that occur in their bodies and the consequences that result. Often times poor play is attributed to poor swing mechanics. However, swing faults are often a result of specific body restrictions, which then lead to swing faults. Body restrictions can include muscular weaknesses or movement limitations that force a deviated or incorrect swing path, thus altering swing mechanics.

At bphealth clinics, we utilize a program that combines a comprehensive assessment catered to the golfer followed by an individualized treatment and conditioning program.  When an assessment is conducted, it must examine the physical requirements of the golfer relative to the golf swing.  It analyzes the muscles most involved in the golf swing or strained in golf-related injuries, and the joints that must move properly to allow the body to rotate in the swing. When observing the muscles and joints, the golfer will be tested for muscle strength and endurance, joint range of motion and restrictions, posture, balance, flexibility, mobility, and stability.

From this assessment we develop and implement the individualized treatment and conditioning program. The therapy component can include Active Release Techniques®, Medical Acupuncture, and spinal manipulation to release the golfer’s excessively tight muscles and move restricted joints to maximize swing efficiency.  We then combine postural strengthening and conditioning techniques to effectively address core strength, core stability and body balance in order to achieve proper golf swing mechanics. This consequently strengthens the appropriate muscles that provide greater control and allow for the stable base necessary for achieving the perfect golf swing.

Benefits of Golf Performance Therapy:

1. • Improved core strength and stability
2. • Increased flexibility
3. • Improved hip strength and stability
4. • Improved balance
5. • Better focus
6. • Reduced risk of injury
7. • Increased back strength
8. • Increased lean body mass
9. • Improved endurance

Looking for a public, walk-in medical clinic in downtown Toronto’s fashion district?

Our friendly staff and physicians will help you with all your medical needs whether it is to treat you for the upcoming allergy season, the flu, common colds, sprains, or you just need a physical, the bphealth clinic at 345 Adelaide St. West in downtown Toronto’s fashion district is now open and booking appointments with little wait times. Our clinic is near Toronto luxury hotels, restaurants and shops.

Our physicians are knowledgeable, friendly and experienced emergency and family medicine specialists and also work in emergency rooms at major academic and community hospitals across the GTA.  Rest assured that you are in good hands with bphealth clinics.

For the past few years there has been an increase in the number of people who complain of moderate to severe neck pain that progressively worsens with little to no relief.  Although, there are several factors and causes for people to experience neck pain, one common feature that sticks out as a cause is poor posture.  Neck pain and poor posture are particularly related to those who spend time hunched over sitting behind a desk with their head and neck leaned forward for the better part of their day, whether its work related or casually on the computer surfing the internet.  The implications from sitting at a desk for an extended period of time are postural pain syndrome.

How can sitting behind a desk lead to postural pain syndrome?  Quite simply poorly equipped work stations where ergonomics are neglected combined with a lack of sense of awareness of poor posture.

Some of the signs and symptoms of postural pain syndrome are headaches, weakness and fatigue in the upper back/shoulder areas, and neck pain. Often, pains in these areas are also accompanied by “shooting pain” down the arms as well as in the neck and upper back.  The “shooting pain” is described as numbness and/or tingling by most people.  This occurs when nerve roots and sometimes blood vessels are being pinched upon in the neck and upper back because of poor posture.

Over time with sustained poor posture abnormal stress is put on the muscles, joints, and neurological tissues which can lead to pain, degenerative and structural changes.  In addition, the muscles in the areas effected become weak, shortened, and lengthened creating muscle imbalances in some areas all leading to postural pain syndrome.  Subsequently the muscles usually effected are in both the front and back of the neck that attach to the shoulder blade and upper thorax and muscles behind the head which when they become tight can lead to headaches.  The result being individuals developing forward head posture, rounded shoulders and round back. 

But not to worry, here are some simple tips to help you prevent and above all help decrease some of the symptoms of postural pain syndrome.

1. Make sure to take frequent breaks from your desk/computer work.  You may want to set a timer to help remind you to stop what you’re doing and step away for a quick stretch or to walk around.  A general rule of thumb may be to take a break every 30-45 minutes.  It doesn’t have to be a long break either, 2-3 minutes to allow for some stretches.

2. Make changes to your work station that is ergonomical.

1. a) Be sure to have a good chair - one that is adjustable in height (your feet should rest flat on the floor), backrest to adjust forward / backwards /up / down. Also of importance is to sit fully back against your chair when sitting.  Having a chair with an arm rest would be preferable.


2. b) It is also important to have your keyboard, mouse and pad if using a computer,  at a height that allows your wrist to be in a neutral position (not flexed or extended), and elbows bent at about 90 degrees.


3. c) Lastly, ensure that your computer screen is at eye level to avoid having to put your neck in an awkward position when working.

3. Three Simple stretches:

1. a) Place your right arm behind your back and tilt your head to the left and hold between 15-30 seconds.  This will stretch your right upper trapezius muscle.  Perform the same stretch for the left upper trapezius by switching arm and tilting head to the right.  Repeat both 3 times.


2. b) Another good neck stretch is to turn your head to right as far as possible and tilt head downwards as comfortable as possible and hold for 15-30 seconds.  Afterwards, perform the same for the left side.  Repeat Both 3 times.


3. c) Bring both of your shoulders back by squeezing your shoulder blades together and holding it for 15-30 seconds.  Repeat 3 times.

1. To stretch or not to stretch, and when is best?
Well debated topic, but current research points to potential detrimental effects of “cold” stretching before activity. Best to perform dynamic multi-joint movement patterns (“warmup”) before any exertional activity, and stretch post activity.

2. Better order of workouts, cardio first or weights first?
The order merely depends upon your goals. If focused on strength and hypertrophy, a brisk 10-15 min warmup on a cardio machine is a good idea to perfuse all the muscles before weights. For an endurance or toning program, a 30 min+ cardio session before a weights routine works better.

3. Best exercises to improve posture?
Some of the best exercises that improve postural awareness and control involve strengthening of the upper and lower back muscles. These exercises include chinups/pull-ups, seated row, lat pulldown, planks, low back extensions, squats and deadlifts. Stabilizing the deep neck and interscapular muscles should be a focus in these exercises.

4. If you happen to be one of the many racquet sport players that show up 2 min before court time, make it a point to visit the fitness centre for at least 15-20 min before getting on the court. A brisk warmup on a cardio machine followed with some stretching and core activation exercises before you play can be part of your physical and mental performance for the match.

5. Best time to workout?
It would make sense that the best time to workout would be when you are most awake, and it has been stipulated that our body is in its optimal awake state between 10am-1pm on average. So if you are planning to start a new exercise regime, try this time of the day to maximize energy efficiency and a less busier gym.

Dr. Paul W.M. Fedak, MD PhD FRCSC
Chief Medical Officer, Bphealth

In Canada, heart disease is the number one killer.  Many of us are not aware that this is also true for women.  More and more, we physicians are seeing young people in their 30s and 40s presenting with big heart attacks.  Its scary but true.  It seems like no one is safe.

Many people survive a heart attack with modern medicine and surgery.  However, they end up living with a damaged heart that can’t pump effectively.  Over time, the heart can enlarge and get weaker leading to congestive heart failure.  Congestive heart failure is a devastating problem that leaves people weak and disabled.  They can’t live a normal life and often feel tired and out of breath.  They take many medications and are often and in and out of the hospital.  Once you are diagnosed with heart failure, your prognosis is as bad as having terminal cancer.

Now that I have sufficiently terrified you, the good news is that you can and should do something about managing your risk and avoiding a heart attack.  We all need to avoid having a heart attack that will change your life.  Here are some of my best tips to protect yourself from future heart attacks.

Tip #1:  Watch your waistline
There is pretty good evidence that having a big gut is very bad for your heart health.  Even if you had the same amount of obesity, it is particularly bad if most of it is around your waist.  For men it is important to have a waistline below 40 inches and for women, 35 inches is critical.  Watch out!  Your pants are lying to you!  The waist in inches as listed on your pants is a few inches smaller than your real waistline.  So, if you are a man and you wear a size 38 inch waist on your pants you are fine – right?  Wrong!  If you take a tape measure – and everyone should do this to really see where they are at – you will probably get 41 inches!  The clothing industry has been changing the sizes slowly over time and tricking us all.  Get out the tape measure and deal with reality.

Tip #2:  Fish oil
Some regular dietary intake of fish is important to get the needed special fat that some fish have a lot of.  Eating some specific fats are actually good for you and won’t make you fat.  Eating fish a couple of times per week will probably get you the benefits you need.  If you can’t eat fish you can take fish oil supplements (omega-3) to make up the difference.  But……don’t eat too much fish!  The mercury levels in fish can get dangerous if you eat too much.  Moderation is always key.

Tip #3:  Get off your butt
We are all really busy and it is hard to make exercise a part of your life.  But if you don’t you won’t have a life.  The good news is that you don’t need to be a marathon runner to make your heart happy.  Getting 20 minutes at least 3 times per week can provide a lot of benefit.  This can be as simple as having a brisk walk during a break at work or at you lunch hour.  You don’t have to kill yourself either.  Getting your heart rate up to the point where you can still carry on a conversation is all you need.  So don’t sweat it too much.

Tip #4:  See a doctor or nurse
Having a routine check-up where your doctor or nurse can check your blood pressure and your blood for cholesterol and triglycerides can make a big difference.  Nobody likes doctors, not even me.  But a 15-minute visit once a year is worth it.  You would do it for your car, so do it for your heart.  I recently had mine checked – all is well.

Tip #5:  You are what you eat
We all know this so why is it so hard to eat right?  It’s not that hard to make some healthy choices.  Spend some time finding out what you are eating and why.  Try using a program like Fitday.com to track what you eat.  Seeing your breakdown of dietary fat, carbs, and protein as well as overall calories is very revealing.  I have recently tried this and could not believe what I was putting in my body.  It was easy to do with the internet site and will help you understand what you should do to find the right diet.

I cannot count how many times someone has made a self-diagnosis that they have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Yet they do not display any of the signs and symptoms associated with the condition.  CTS is brought about by the entrapment of the median nerve, as it passes between tiny bones by the crease of the wrist (carpal bones) and the transverse carpal ligament. This location is referred to as the carpal tunnel.

CTS is considered a repetitive stress injury and is believed to affect people who work with computers and on cash registers.  It may also occur in among athletes whose sports require constant gripping. Women are diagnosed three times as often as men are, mainly because the carpal tunnel is smaller in women.

Possible causes of CTS are fluid retention in the wrist, partial separation of the carpal bones putting pressure on the median nerve and thickening of the ligaments of the wrist because of repetitive use.

CTS can exhibit signs and symptoms like tingling and numbness in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and half of the ring finger. This condition is aggravated during activity.  Discomfort might be experienced at night when people tend to sleep either on their arm, or with their wrist flexed. 

People who are affected by CTS have problems with their thenar eminence. No this is not a term for royalty, but the group of muscles on the palm of the human hand at the base of the thumb. This structure may appear flat in some people because the thumb decreases in size due to a prolonged lack of nerve stimulation.

Since chronic CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage it is important to not get it that far. CTS is initially treated with rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medication.  A splint can be worn at night, a diuretic can help reduce excess fluid. If it really gets painful corticosteroid injections into the wrist may also reduce inflammation.  In more severe and chronic cases, surgery may be required.  Massage may be appropriate on CTS depending on the cause.

Comment Form

Book an Appointment Online

Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Resources | Sitemap

Copyright 2012 bphealth clinics. All Rights Reserved. | Email: clinics@bphealth.ca