The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the name of the joint located on either side of your head, just in front of your ears. These joints connect your jawbone to your skull. The TMJ, which can rotate and move forward, backward and side to side, is considered one of the most complex joints in the body. This joint, in combination with other muscles and ligaments, lets you chew, swallow, speak and yawn. When you have a problem with the muscle, bone or other tissue in the area in and around the TMJ, you may have a TMD.
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Sprains and Strains
So you’ve been out running, biking, gardening, golfing or rollerblading and something hurts. First, good for you for listening to your body. Now, let’s figure out if it’s a sprain or a strain. Both sprains and strains are common injuries that share similar signs and symptoms, but each involves different parts of the body.
Arthritis Pain
Aging is a fact of a life. We must accept getting older, but that doesn’t mean we have to put up with all the aches and pains that come with it. Arthritis is a condition that often creeps up on us as we age. Over 4.6 million Canadians are affected by arthritis. While there is no cure for it, there are treatments available through your chiropractor that can definitely help manage the chronic pain associated with the condition.
Back-saving Tips for Spring Cleaning
Have you ever stared down your list of household chores and wish you had a magic wand? Not very many people seem to like cleaning the house; however, it is one of life’s necessities. The mundane nature of chores aside, some household activities require a great deal of bending, reaching and twisting that may increase the risk of injuries. Here are some back-saving tips for spring cleaning.
A Good Pillow
A good pillow for sleeping should be comfortable to lay your head upon, but most importantly it must support your neck keeping it in alignment with the rest of your spine. There are many different pillows on the market today from traditional feather and fiber ones to shaped pillows, memory foam and buckwheat pillows. It can be difficult to know what to choose.
Myths & Facts about Back Pain
It is easy to confuse myths and facts when it comes to back pain. Back pain is one of the most common health complaints today with 80% of people experiencing problems at some point in their lives. Rather than rely on hearsay about what causes back pain and which treatments work best, it’s important to consult a health professional. Here are some myths and facts about back pain, along with spinal health tips that can help prevent problems.
Hockey Stretches
Starting Out
- Invest in equipment, sticks and hockey skates that suit your height and size.
- Be ‘head smart’ – wear your helmet with the cage, shield or visor properly secured.
- Sharpen your skates regularly for better performance.
- Repair or replace damaged or broken equipment.
- If you are new to the hockey game, get checked by a health professional, such as a chiropractor, to make sure it’s an appropriate fitness activity for you. If you are a regular player, routine chiropractic check ups can help optimize your muscle and joint function and deal with stiffness and soreness before they sideline you.
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Heads Up on Helmets
Helmets aren’t just for extreme sports. Many fun seasonal activities, such as bike riding, rollerblading, skiing or skating, require the use of a helmet. They are designed to protect your head and can reduce the risk of an injury by 30 per cent. There are a wide variety of activities requiring helmets, that is why it’s important to pick the right one for the job.
Start The New Year Off Right
Happy New Year! Whether it’s a new diet, a new exercise program, or a new healthy lifestyle, many of us have committed to a New Year’s Resolution. Here are a few steps you can take to improve the health of your spine and your overall wellness this year.
Lift Light, Shovel Right
Winter weather can pack a punch and, with the season’s heavy snowfalls, injuries often result. Improper snow shoveling is often to blame, but shoveling out after a storm doesn’t have to leave you stiff and sore. With a little know-how, you can shovel your driveway without the all-too-common back, neck and shoulder pain cramping your style.