“The two main causes of injuries among snowboarders and skiers are falls and collisions,” says Dr. Brad Yee. “The way to avoid injury is to do pre-season dry land training exercises. Snowboarders need to stabilize and strengthen their upper extremities, like their shoulders and arms,” says Dr. Yee. “Skiers need to strengthen their lower extremities, specifically quads and hamstring muscles.” Dr. Yee says that core strength for the spine is important for both sports. He suggests that skiers and snowboarders could include one or two lessons at the beginning of the season, just to get the cobwebs out of their technique, and to rid themselves of any bad habits. Often when the knees get tired, more force is exerted on the spine with each bump. Exercise and working to give the spine extra strength and flexibility will help resist the rigors of skiing. Even when people are on the slopes, stretching exercises are important.

The first run and last run of the day should be done on easier slopes. Most injuries happen near the end of the day when slope enthusiasts are fighting both fatigue and poorer snow conditions.

Commenting on recent studies comparing snowboarding and alpine skiing injuries, Dr. Yee notes the following:

-Deaths were comparable among the two sports. Skiers most often die of blunt trauma to the head or vital organs. Snowboarder deaths are often attributed to submersion in tree wells. (For example, they fall head first into the area around the tree base, and are unable to get out, as their bindings might not release.)

If you have any questions about this or other blog postings, don’t hesitate to contact your Vancouver Chiropractors Dr. Tyler Hunsberger and Dr. Jerry Wright

Some Some people carry what seems like the world in their handbag.
Similar to carrying a heavy backpack, a heavy shoulder bag or
purse can injure your back, neck and shoulders. Hand and
shoulder bags also create poor posture by encouraging the carrier
to lean to one side. This affects posture, balance and movement.

Here are some helpful tips to protect your muscles from a heavy
handbag.

Choosing a handbag

1. Choose a handbag that is proportionate to your body size and no larger than what is
needed. Your handbag should not weigh more than 10 per cent of your body weight
up to a maximum of 15 pounds.

2. The shoulder straps should be wide and adjustable. Ensure that the straps do not cut
into your shoulder. Shoulder straps that dig into the muscles, put pressure on the
nerves.

3. If possible, select a strap that is long enough to place over your head so as to rest on
the shoulder opposite the handbag. This will help distribute the weight of the bag
more evenly.

4. Choose a handbag that has several individual pockets instead of one large
compartment. This will help to distribute the weight of the contents more evenly and
keep them from shifting.

Packing a handbag

1. Resist the urge to carry everything with you all day. Consider leaving less commonly
used items behind. Keep that heavy laptop out of your bag!

2. Change the size and weight of your wallet once in a while. You may also consider
one wallet for your work and a different one for when you go out, as you may need
different objects for both.

3. Ensure the weight is evenly distributed in the purse by using all the pockets.

If you have any questions about this blog or other blog entries, don’t hesitate to contact your Vancouver Chiropractors Dr. Tyler Hunsberger and Dr. Jerry Wright

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is based upon the understanding that health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning neuro-musculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and bones, chiefly in the spinal area. We address these diseases without the use of drugs or surgery.

What conditions do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractic care is used most often to treat complaints including, but not limited to, back pain, neck pain, joint pain in the hands, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, sports injuries, pinched nerves and headaches.

Is chiropractic treatment effective?

Yes. Chiropractic care is both safe and effective. Scientific evidence proving that chiropractic care works is overwhelming. Based on these numerous scientific studies, the consensus is that chiropractic care is the treatment of choice for most spinal problems.

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal complaints. The risk associated with chiropractic care is smaller than that of common pain medications. For example, a study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, approximately one-third of all hospitalizations and deaths related to gastrointestinal bleeding can be attributed to the use of aspirin or NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen.

What type of education and training do chiropractors have?

Our chiropractors are educated as primary contact health care practitioners, just like your family physician, optometrist or dentist but with a specific emphasis on musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment. The typical chiropractor will have at least 7 years of post-secondary education, with the chiropractic curriculum comprising 4 years of intense classroom, laboratory and clinical education.

How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?

Our chiropractors typically use their hands to manipulate the joints of the body, particularly the spine, in order to reduce pain, and restore or enhance joint function. Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Treatment often includes soft tissue therapy, modalities, rehabilitative stretches and exercises.

Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?

No, a patient does not need referral by an MD before visiting a doctor of chiropractic. Our chiropractors are primary contact physicians, and are so defined in provincial and federal regulations. Following a consultation and examination, the doctor of chiropractic will arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan, or refer the patient to the appropriate health care provider.

Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?

The majority of all insured Canadian workers have some coverage for chiropractic services in their extended health care plans. Chiropractic is partially covered by MSP for those who are on Premium Assistance and by ICBC or WCB for those who have a valid claim.

What can I expect on the first visit?

Our chiropractors will conduct a thorough history of your current complaint, previous treatment, and relevant medical history. A full physical examination will be performed, including nerve and muscle testing and a comprehensive spinal examination. A treatment will usually be given, followed by home exercises. On the second visit, your chiropractor will take the time to discuss with you your diagnosis, your home exercise program and your treatment plan.

Can I get an appointment the same day?

Our chiropractors have a policy of holding several appointments each day for emergency or last-minute patients. We will always attempt to accommodate your health needs. Booking in advance, however, assures that you will secure the time that is most convenient for you.

Do you accept ICBC/WCB claims and do I need a referral to see a Chiropractor?

Yes, we accept ICBC/WCB claims, please bring your claim number to your appointment. No, you don’t need a referral to see a Chiropractor. We are primary care physicians.

Each week, Dr. Don features important health information about your spine including chronic pain, conditions, treatment and prevention in an effort to provide tools and resources for you to take control of your own health. After all, it’s your health, it’s your life!
www.bcchiro.com/bcca/your-spine-your-health/empowered_health.html

To All Our Patients

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from

Dr. Wright, Dr. Hunsberger, Melanie Gatzke, Valerie and Taylor.

Research shows that physical inactivity can cause premature death, chronic disease and disability. Health Canada encourages Canadians to integrate physical activity into their every day life; at home, at school, at work, at play and on the way … that’s active living!

For children, regular physical activity is essential for healthy growth and development. For adults, it allows daily tasks to be accomplished with greater ease and comfort and with less fatigue.

For seniors, weight-bearing physical activity reduces the rate of bone loss associated with osteoporosis. Regular physical activity also maintains strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, and can help reduce the risk of falls.

Being physically active not only strengthens your body, it also makes you feel good about yourself.

What Can You Do?

Physical activity is something that everyone can do. You don’t need to run a marathon or spend hours at a gym. Look for simple ways to be physically active every day.

You could:

Take a walk once a day;
Take the stairs instead of the elevator;
Spend less time in front of the television or computer;
Play actively with your kids;
Walk, wheel or cycle for short trips; or
Find out about walking and cycling paths nearby and use them.

www.hc-sc.gc.ca