Fall Prevention: Simple Home Safety Tips for Seniors

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Falling is the number one cause of injuries among seniors, and many of these accidents happen at home. This is a scary thought, but the good news is the majority of these falls are preventable if the right measures are taken.  

Dangerous falls can lead to potentially life-altering injuries, but becoming aware of your living environment and making the necessary changes can dramatically reduce the chances of having an accident at home. 

Seniors will feel a lot safer when they:

  1. Install non-skid bath mats

Self-adhesive slip-resistant strips are also very effective and should be placed in tubs and showers to prevent falls in the bathroom.

  1. Install solid handrails on all stairs

Going up and down stairs can be very dangerous, but placing solid handrails on both sides will provide seniors with stability and allow them to climb stairs a lot more easily.

  1. Make sure the home is well-lit

Darkness can lead to falls, and seniors need to be able to see their surroundings. Proper lighting throughout the home is a must, as this will make it easier for seniors to navigate through their space, and they will be able to detect potential tripping hazards.

  1. Make sure rugs are slip-proof

Getting your foot caught in a rug is very common, and this is even more problematic for seniors who cannot catch their fall. All rugs in the home should be slip-proof, and taping them to the floor is highly recommended.

  1. Remove items that are easy to trip over

They must be removed, whether it’s an ottoman in the middle of the room, electrical cords or a pile of books. Clutter is a significant concern due to the potential trip hazard and subsequent injuries. A senior whose structural integrity and bone health may already be compromised could be at high risk for serious injury due to slips, trips and falls. Removing unnecessary clutter will establish a clean environment that is far less accident-prone.

  1. Install safety grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet

Seniors may have difficulty lowering themselves onto the toilet, but a grab bar will provide support. They will be able to lower and lift themselves with the help of this tool, and installing one in the shower is also highly recommended. This bar will prevent seniors from slipping and falling on the wet surface. 

  1. Install anti-slip safety treads on all stairs

This consideration applies to stairs on the interior and exterior of the house. Treads should be placed on all stairs to provide seniors with a better grip.  

  1. Make any necessary repairs

Loose floorboards, for example, should be repaired immediately, and any other components that can cause accidents should be dealt with immediately. 

These simple yet effective steps will positively impact daily routines and reduce the likelihood of a serious fall for seniors.

Conclusion

Are you in pain as a result of a fall? Our team here at Apex Physiotherapy & Chiropractic can provide relief through the various treatments we offer. Chiropractic care and physiotherapy can help you move comfortably again after an accident. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Can Orthotics Help with Sciatic Pain?

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Custom orthotics can help alleviate lower back pain, and if you suffer from sciatica, this is an effective device you can consider. Custom orthotics provide foot support and are designed to cushion your heel, toes and foot. You will experience relief from discomfort and pain caused by sciatica, a symptom of any common lower back problems. 

Those who suffer from sciatica will feel numbness, weakness, tingling or pain that will start in the lower back and travel through the buttock to the large sciatic nerve that runs down the back of your leg.

How Orthotics Can Help with Sciatica

Lower back pain falls into two categories; chronic lower back pain, which is any ache or pain that lasts longer than three months and acute lower back pain, which refers to pain that starts after an event like lifting a heavy object. Custom orthotics can help both categories and is known to significantly improve pain and discomfort. 

With sciatica specifically, custom orthotics can help by:

Controlling Foot Movements

Your orthotic device can be used to control motions of your foot that may be transferred up the leg and to the lower back. Excessive movement of your foot beyond its range of motion can transfer into rotational movement of the leg. This rotation will then transfer up to your knee and lead to pain, or it can pass through the knee up to the hip and cause the muscles in your lower back to work overtime to stabilize. Custom foot orthotics can be used in these cases to control the movements of your foot and reduce the cascading effect up your leg to your lower back. 

Reducing Impact on Joints

An orthotic device can also be used to reduce impact forces while you walk. When the joints in your foot have reduced ranges of movement, the force of your heel striking the ground can be transferred through your foot and up your leg to your hip and lower back, and this problem is more common with individuals who have high arches and a rigid foot structure. Your custom orthotic will provide cushioning and distribute the pressure beneath your feet evenly, reducing some of the impact forces associated with walking. 

Custom orthotics are designed to the individual needs of the person and their feet. They are specific to your feet; every factor will be considered to ensure your orthotics can help with your sciatica. Custom orthotics can be adjusted or modified if your needs change to ensure your continual, optimal comfort in your day-to-day activity.

Conclusion

Are you ready to say goodbye to sciatic pain? Custom foot orthotics may be the answer, and our team here at Apex Physiotherapy & Chiropractic can provide you with more information. We will discuss all of the benefits custom orthotics provide, and you can contact us any time to schedule an appointment!

5 Ways to Prevent Falls at Home and Elsewhere

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Fall prevention is very important because an accident can happen at any time, and a fall can result in serious, sometimes even life-threatening, injuries. 

The following tips will help you prevent falls and stay safe:

  1. Stay As Healthy As Possible

Practicing good self-care is one of the best ways to avoid falling, which means you must stay active and well-nourished. You must also take good care of your feet and eyes and understand how certain medical conditions and prescription medications impact the risk of falls. This knowledge will allow you to apply the best prevention strategies tailored to your condition and lifestyle.

  1. Do Not Be Afraid to Use Assistive Devices

Many people do not use assistive tools because they think it’s a sign of weakness, but putting your pride aside will allow you to remain safe. Assistive devices and corrective lenses will allow you to remain independent and feel safe because you will avoid slip and fall hazards. You will feel steadier on your feet as these devices provide balance and stability assistance.

  1. Turn on the Lights

You are far more likely to bump into things when you can’t see where you’re going in your own home, potentially tripping over items in your path during evening hours. A well-lit home is a lot safer as it will lower the risk of falls, and you can easily navigate through your home. Add lighting to your hallways and stairwells to see where you’re going and ensure nothing is in your way. 

  1. Keep Your Home Clutter-Free

Magazines, cords, ottomans and loose carpeting can all cause dangerous falls, and you need to eliminate such hazards from your home. Remove these items and create clear paths to prevent slips and falls, and do your best to ensure your home is organized with ample walking space. You shouldn’t have to walk around furniture or piles of books, and your floors should be clean and clear.

  1. Make the Necessary Changes

Whether it’s loose floorboards or the installation of stair grips, some fall-prevention improvements will require extensive effort, but these projects are worth your time. Installing handrails in bathrooms is a smart idea, as is installing non-skid flooring. Stairways should have sturdy banisters, and anything that seems even remotely dangerous should be fixed. 

Taking a few precautions will minimize your risk of falling, and your home will be a safe and risk-free environment. Falling can affect your independence and health, which is why you need to take all of the necessary steps to avoid accidents from occurring.

Conclusion

Are you experiencing pain and discomfort as a result of a fall? Whether you fell at home or elsewhere, physio and chiropractic care can help, and the experts at Apex Physiotherapy & Chiropractic can help provide relief. We will find the source of your pain and provide compassionate, comprehensive treatment. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Physiotherapy: A Natural And Easy Solution To Shoulder Pain

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Shoulder pain is not something you look forward to as you age. Unfortunately, shoulder pain is one of the most common joint pains that we experience as we age. Sure, you can take an anti-inflammatory or rub a topical cream on, but one of the most effective solutions is something you don’t need to swallow or rub on; it’s physiotherapy! Physiotherapy is an all-natural and easy way to relieve, manage, and even completely eliminate shoulder pains.

Why do I have shoulder pain?

Before determining what to do about shoulder pain, the cause of shoulder pain should be addressed. Shoulder pain can occur for many reasons, the cause will almost always determine how we go about with treatment.

First, determine if this is the first time you’ve felt this pain. Does it feel like anything that’s happened before? Is it sharp? Dull? Does it stay in one place? Is there anything that makes it feel worse or better? These are all questions your physiotherapist will ask to determine what is causing your pain.

Some conditions that may be the culprit include:

  • Arthritis

Arthritis in the shoulder causes stiffness in the joint and difficulty with mobility. Depending on the kind of arthritis, the bones are either breaking down or the joints are swelling.

  • Torn cartilage

Tearing cartilage sounds almost as painful as it is. Tears can happen in a number of ways, but all result in painful symptoms and decreased strength. With physiotherapy, the pain will decrease and strength will increase.

  • stains/sprain

Spraining or straining your shoulder can happen at any point. It is when a muscle or ligament gets stretched too far, this can happen after a dislocation.

  • Pain from inactivity

If you have ever sat or laid down in one position for a long time, you know the crampy feeling you get in your joints when you stand up. That uncomfortable feeling is multiplied if a joint is immobilized for a long time, like after a fracture or broken bone.

  • Joint inflammation

Joint inflammation conditions like bursitis happen in joints of repeated activity, if left untreated, chronic pain will result. If you’re experiencing bursitis, you might feel an aching pain in your shoulder accompanied by redness of the skin.

What can physiotherapy do for you?

Physiotherapy as a practice boasts improved mobility, flexibility, long-term pain relief as well as increased joint longevity. Physiotherapy can be a combination of massage, acupuncture, exercises, and more. At Apex Physiotherapy and Chiropractic clinic, our professionals will develop a plan and allow you to feel as though your shoulder has aged backward! Call us and ask what we can do for you today!

PACK IT LIGHT. WEAR IT RIGHT.

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PACK IT LIGHT. WEAR IT RIGHT. 
Kids think it’s “cool” to strap on their backpacks and head out to school. But if they don’t know exactly how to choose, load, lift and wear them – these all-important accessories can be a pain in the back. Literally. Not to mention the neck, head, and shoulders.For example, a heavy backpack, carried on one shoulder, forces the muscles and spine to compensate for the uneven weight. This places stress on the mid and lower back, and may increase the likelihood of back problems later in life.
 
Backpacks can affect your children’s healthPrevention is key
 
Carrying a heavy load that is unevenly or improperly distributed can result in poor posture; and even distort the spinal column, throwing it out of alignment. This can cause muscle strain, headaches, back, neck and arm pain, and even nerve damage.Here are a few pointers to help you help your school age children carry their load comfortably and safely Choose the right backpack Forget leather! It looks great, but it’s far too heavy. Go for vinyl or canvas. Pick a pack that has two wide, adjustable, padded shoulder straps, along with a hip or waist strap, padded back and plenty of pockets. Make sure the pack fits properly, is not too snug around the arms and under the armpits, and that its size is proportionate to the wearer’s body.
Packing it properly: They’re not moving out! Make sure your children’s packs contain only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distributed evenly. It’s a good idea to know roughly what each item weighs. The total weight of the filled pack should be no more than 10 to 15 per cent of the wearer’s own body weight. Pack heaviest objects close to the body, and place bumpy or oddshaped ones on the outside, away from the back. Putting the backpack on: It’s a good idea to help young children with this, at least the first few times. Put the pack on a flat surface, at waist height. Slip on the pack, one shoulder at a time, then adjust the straps to fit comfortably. Remember when lifting a backpack, or anything, to lift using the arms and legs and to bend at the knees. The right way to wear a backpack: Both shoulder straps should be used, and adjusted so that the pack fits snugly to the body, without dangling to the side. Backpacks should never be worn over just one shoulder. You should be able to slide your hand between the backpack and your child’s back. The waist strap should also be worn for added stability. More than 50 per cent of young people experience at least one episode of lower back pain by their teenage years. Research indicates that this could be caused, to a great extent, by improper use of backpacks. If your child does complain of back pain, numbness or weakness in his or her arms and legs, get help to prevent future problems.

BACK HEALTH AT WORK

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Over 80% of the working population will experience low back pain at least once in their lifetime. Many people sit all day at work, often with poor posture, and this can increase the risk of developing low back pain. Sitting down for long periods of time, repetitive movements, and awkward work positions may lead to pain and discomfort. Here are five tips that will make your workstation more comfortable. Maintain Proper Posture The secret to good posture is maintaining the spine’s natural curves. If your spine is not properly aligned, your muscles and ligaments have to work harder to keep you upright. When sitting, make sure that your ears, shoulders, and hips are in line and your buttocks are at the back of the chair. Sit tall with your chest high. Adjust Your Chair Your shoulders and lower back should rest comfortably against the backrest. You may need to use a lumbar support pillow or a rolled-up towel to provide extra support to your lower back. The height and angle of the seat should allow for your thighs to be parallel to the floor with your knees in line with or slightly lower than your hips. Adjust Your Computer Monitor The top line of text on the screen (not the top of the monitor) should be at eye level. This helps to keep your neck in a neutral position while you work. If your monitor is not adjustable, stack books or other materials underneath it to raise it up. Check the Position of Your Keyboard and Mouse Place your keyboard high enough to allow you to rest your arms with your elbows at your sides and your forearms parallel to the floor. If you use a laptop regularly, consider buying an external keyboard so you don’t need to choose between straining your neck to look down at the monitor or straining your arms to reach up to your keyboard. Place your mouse as close to the keyboard as possible to avoid unnecessary reaching. Keep Moving More important than maintaining a “perfect” posture is moving and changing positions. Avoid sitting in one position for longer than 30-50 minutes at a time. Take a quick stretch break or, even better, get up and move around. While sitting, try to change positions periodically.

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NOW OPEN

Naturopathic Doctor Pickering
We Are Now Open for Everyone!
 
Dear Patients, It has been a long road but the day has finally come! We are happy to say that our college has given us the go-ahead to re-open and resume regular treatments! We look forward to being your go-to clinic once again for all your aches, pains, muscle, and joint issues!

We would like to assure you that we are going above and beyond to ensure the safety of all of our staff and patients. Please see below for all of our new clinic implementations to make you feel reassured that every attempt to reduce any viral transmission will be done. These implementations are not only important for us when at the clinic but also for your loved ones at home so please read carefully before booking your next visit!   Ultimate safety precautions have been implemented and must be strictly followed • If you or anyone you have been in contact with have cold or flu-like symptoms, please reschedule your appointment for 14 days later. 

• Proper social distancing will take place within the clinic. A large plexiglass barrier is in place to prevent any cross-contamination between reception staff and patients.

• Only one person will be allowed in the waiting area at one time. You may be taken directly back to a treatment room.

• We will have a 2m distance spacing when waiting to pay for treatments.

• Hand sanitizer is available at the entryway. All patients MUST sanitize their hands upon entry and prior to
leaving the clinic.
  • Masks are required to be worn at all times when in the clinic.

• The patient treatment areas will be thoroughly disinfected between each patient visit. This includes ALL surfaces, door handles, chairs, etc. 

• We will do our best to ensure that patients will not be arriving and leaving at the same time. Appointments will be staggered and have longer times in between to allow for cleaning. This may mean that bookings will be limited as there will be fewer appointment times available.

• Payments can be contactless and statements can be emailed to patients. 

• All magazines and toys have been removed from the reception area. 

• Each patient may purchase their OWN set of electrode pads for the IFC machine. OUR cost is $10 per set and they will be made available to you at cost. Otherwise, they will be disinfected between patients as per our standard treatment protocol.  

• The patient washroom will be available for use, but ONLY with permission from the staff. We need to monitor and disinfect before and after each use. Please do NOT use without our knowledge, for your own safety and the safety of others. 

• PLEASE come on time for your appointments or you may not be able to be seen and there will be a missed appointment charge.

• Appointments should be made by telephone/website only to minimize traffic near the front desk. 

• We ask you to attend your treatment alone if possible. Have family members wait for you outside/in the car, rather than in the reception area. If you require assistance please let us know and we will be happy to help.   Even though so much has changed, even more, has remained the same!  Our amazing team of practitioners is excited to help you feel your best and provide the same high level of care you have come to know and expect from Apex!

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

VIRTUAL CARE APPOINTMENTS

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Virtual Care appointments! 

Our Apex practitioners will now be accepting consults virtually through our new portal!  

Virtual care would enable your practitioner to alleviate your concerns, give recommendations about a particular condition/symptom you may be experiencing, and educate you on self-treatments such as doable at-home exercises, stretching, or rehab! 

Booking your virtual care appointment

To register and request a virtual care appointment with any of our practitioners at Apex, you can either click on the link below OR call/email our office and we can book it for you! 

https://healthlink.fitsamerica.com/#/register/5ea5b887ded6d30008e0e118/5ea609200f4ea775ef34026d
(The left column and country of residence are only mandatory fields for existing patients of Apex)

For the next month, we will be offering a Covid discount of $10 off our virtual care visit price

Exciting News for Chiropractic in Ontario

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We’re Here For You. View this email in your browser
  Chiropractic Scope Expanding to Include Lab Tests and Diagnostic Ultrasound The OCA is very pleased to announce some exciting news for chiropractic in Ontario! The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) sent the OCA and the College of Chiropractors of Ontario a letter today stating it is moving forward with granting chiropractors the authority to order select lab tests and diagnostic ultrasound. By expanding chiropractors’ ability to practice closer to their full scope of practice including the use of these valuable diagnostic tools, the MOHLTC has recognized that chiropractors play a critical role in improving the care and health outcomes of Ontarians. This move is consistent with the support of integrating chiropractors into the health care system including removing the policy barrier to chiropractors practicing in primary care inter-professional teams, the Inter-professional Spine Assessment and Education Clinics, and Primary Care Low Back Pain pilots. It represents part of the government’s comprehensive approach to increasing access to care, reducing wait times, and improving patient experience. The OCA, the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), and the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO) have worked both collectively and individually on these goals for many years. We want to acknowledge the fine work of CCO in their role of regulating the profession in the public interest. CMCC has also been invaluable in identifying and providing the evidence-based rationale for specific lab tests and chiropractic educational training and competencies. This is also the result of the excellent care that individual chiropractors provide to their patients, and the role many chiropractors play in advancing the profession. This significant gain is the result of over eight years of intensive advocacy work. The OCA looks forward to working with the government on each of these scope enhancements. The announcement does not discuss the funding of these services. We are working closely with the Ministry to determine the exact details and we will share these with you as we move forward. Enacting these changes will require regulation and other changes and the authority is not yet in place. Learn More about Chiropractors’ Expanded Authority Hospital X-ray Access In 2004, an unintended consequence of delisting OHIP services was that chiropractors lost the ability to order X-rays in public hospitals. The government moved quickly and in 2005 amended the regulations under the Independent Health Facilities Act so chiropractors could order OHIP-funded X-rays through an independent health facility (IHF). Unfortunately, not all areas of the province have local IHFs. We are actively engaged in consultations with the Ministry on options for expanding access to chiropractic ordering of hospital X-rays in specified communities across Ontario.
   
  We’re here for you. Call us: 
Local: 416-860-0070 | Toll-free: 1-877-327-2273

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Ontario Chiropractic Association 200-20 Victoria St Toronto, ON M5C 2N8 Canada